Seed sprouting

Step 5:

There are many type of grass seeds available.  For a large application, a contractor's grade is most economical (about $50/100 lbs).  You can spread the seed using a drop spreader, hand spreader of simply scatter by hand.  The more uniformly the seed is spread, the more cost effective the job.  Application rates vary from 60 to 240 lbs/acre.  This would also be a good time to fertilize or lime the soil, but don't delay and keep your eyes on those clouds.

Temporary silt trap of hay bales

Step 6:

Covering the seed with hay, straw or matting will both enhance the grass growth, provide moisture, keep the seed in place and slow down erosion.  The drainage ditches often need extra measure of protection, such as matting or temporary silt traps. 

Wood fiber erosion blanket

Step 7:

The matting or blanket is available in rolls about 4 to 8 feet wide and 50 feet or longer.  They are made of wood fibers and plastic mesh and are 100% biodegradable.  This is generally used on 3:1 - 2:1 slope and where the water velocity is less than 5 feet per second. 

Erosion blanket stapling pattern

Step 8:

This is stapled every 6 feet using a diagonal pattern using metal staples (about 1" x 6" which come with blanket).  

Erosion blanket in culvert

Step 9:

In the ditch, use seven staples at each seem. Simply push the staples in by hand and step down with your foot. Use a mallet if the ground is hard.

Failed haybale in swale

Step 10:

Hay bales are secured by driving wooden stakes through the bale.  The bales will slow the erosion, but after the first rain may need to be redone.

Washout below failed haybale

Step 11:

Even the best silt trap will fill up quickly and wash out. Plan to check on them frequently and reconstruct after a heavy rain.  They are only needed until the grass take hold.

Erosion blanket protecting culvert inlet

Step 12:

The matting does a much better job at preventing erosion, especially near culverts. 

Unprotected culvert outlet

Step 13:

Without the blanket, the soil erodes easily.

Five foot round hay bale

Step 14:

For large flat areas, cover the ground with hay or straw.  Hay can be spread from square bales or from a large roll.   

Unrolling hay bale along swale

Step 15:

Simply break apart the bale and shake it around.  The round bales can be unrolled down the swale and then spread by hand.   

Light covering of hay

Step 16:

The hay should allow sufficient coverage of the ground and seed, but not too thick to prevent the grass from growing through the cover.  

                                             Now, pray for a steady gentle rain!

Further reading material:
      Excelsior blankets
      Installation along channels
      Erosion construction products
      Road crossing diagrams

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